The Wonderful World of Guinea Hens

At CT Ranch, we love sharing farm life fun facts and nuggets of wisdom with you, and today, we're excited to share all the amazing benefits of Guinea hens. (Yes, this is our second newsletter about Guinea hens but let that just speak to how much we love these birds!)

Whether you're a seasoned farmer or a budding homesteader, Guinea hens could be the perfect addition to your property. FYI, we have Guinea keets (baby Guinea hens) available for sale! Read on to discover why these fascinating birds are a must-have.

The Benefits of Guinea Hens

1. Natural Pest Control: Guinea hens are voracious insect eaters. They can significantly reduce the populations of ticks, beetles, grasshoppers, and other pests. This makes them an excellent, eco-friendly solution for keeping your property pest-free.

2. Protection and Alarm System: Guinea hens are known for their loud, distinctive calls. While this might seem like a nuisance, it actually makes them excellent watchdogs. They will alert you to any unusual activity or intruders, including predators such as foxes and snakes.

3. Low Maintenance: Compared to other poultry, Guinea hens require minimal care. They are hardy birds, resistant to many common poultry diseases, and can forage for much of their food if given enough space.

4. Egg Production: Guinea hens lay eggs that are rich and flavorful. Though they may not lay as prolifically as chickens, their eggs are a unique addition to any kitchen.

5. Weed Control: In addition to eating insects, Guinea hens also help control weeds. They forage on various plant seeds, which can help maintain a more manageable garden or pasture.

Fun Facts About Guinea Hens

1. Unique Appearance: Guinea hens are known for their striking appearance, with speckled feathers and helmeted heads. Their unique look adds a touch of exotic beauty to any farm, and they are just plain fun to watch!

2. Social Birds: These birds are highly social and thrive in flocks. They often move and forage together, creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere on your property.

3. Historical Significance: Guinea hens have been domesticated for centuries, originating from Africa and do well on savannah pastures. They were highly valued in ancient Roman and Greek societies for their meat and eggs.

4. Flight Ability: Unlike most domesticated poultry, Guinea hens are capable fliers. They prefer to roost in trees or high places, which can help them avoid ground predators.

Their flying abilities are also the number one complaint about them. Guinea hen haters will tell you they aren’t worth it because they don't stick around.

However, we have found the solution to that…TURKEYS! Read more about how we  accidentally stumbled upon that bit of know how here.

5. Long Lifespan: With proper care, Guinea hens can live up to 10-15 years, providing long-term benefits and companionship on your farm.

Interested in Adding Guinea Hens to Your Property?

At CT Ranch, we have healthy, vibrant Guinea keets ready to join your farm or homestead. If you're interested in purchasing Guinea hens or want to learn more about their care, please reach out to us.

Contact us today and take the first step toward enjoying the many benefits of our favorite bird!

And if guinea hens at home aren't for you, feel free to come visit the Guineas and other animals at CT Ranch anytime!